A Day of Beauty on the Steens Mountain Back Country Byway

Published on Jan 21, 2009

Explore picturesque scenery and view an abundance of wildlife on the 66-mile Steens Mountain Back Country Byway. Here, experience all that Mother Nature has to offer. Remember your camera-- the Kiger Gorge, located at the byway’s easternmost point, is one of the most photographed areas on the byway. As you make your way on the byway, fill your camera with priceless images of lush greens and startling brown and red rocks.

As long as you’ve got your camera ready, keep an eye out for the local wildlife. Watch antelope and bighorn sheep graze while wild horses gallop freely. You may even see a majestic Bald Eagle, recently taken off the endangered species list. You’ll have the unique opportunity to watch these fantastic animals in their natural habitats, in which they’ve lived for centuries, along the Steens Mountain Back Country Byway.

At the end of the byway, stop and take a stroll through Frenchglen, home to the famed Frenchglen Hotel. Spend the night in this 1920s “All-American” gem, popular with travelers of all ages. With out the distraction of television or phones, you’ll get a real sense of simpler times. At the end of your day on the road, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa on the large covered front porch and reflect on the beauty you found on the Steens Mountain Back Country Byway.

Photo Credits

^ Back to top